Training Generalist Predatory Ladybirds to Target Invasive Tomato Potato Psyllid, <i>Bactericera cockerelli</i> , in Solanaceous Crops

Abstract The tomato potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli , is an invasive pest in Australia, causing severe economic losses in solanaceous crop production and challenging sustainable pest management. Traditional pesticides (such as Organophosphates, Neonicotinoids groups, etc.), which have been used to manage other pests uses to control B . cockerelli , are increasingly challenged due to environmental risks and growing pest resistance, creating an urgent need for sustainable pest management alternatives. Biological control using resident generalist predators, such as ladybirds, shows promise in addressing these issues. This case study examines the potential of early dietary experience to enhance predator-prey interactions for pest control. Two ladybird species, the nonnative variegated ladybird, Hippodamia variegata , and the native transverse ladybird, Coccinella transversalis , were tested for their response to B . cockerelli after initial exposure. Results demonstrated that prior experience with B . cockerelli as prey increased the ladybirds preference and suppression of B . cockerelli populations. This training approach could improve the effectiveness of augmentative release strategies for targeting invasive pests. Information © The Authors 2025.